How to Keep Your Child Safe from Toy Related Injuries

When people think of purchasing toys during the holidays for the children in their lives, they might not think to consider that the toy they are about to purchase could somehow injure the child. Yet, according to statistics provided by the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, a child is injured by a toy every three minutes throughout the U.S.

Toy injuries can arise in a number of different ways. A toy can be defective, used in a way it was not intended, used recklessly, or contain hazardous material- such as lead. It is important to make sure that children are provided with toys that are age appropriate to reduce any risk of hazard a toy may pose. For example, younger children may be more at risk to choke on pieces that can be broken off toys. Older children are more prone to engaging in reckless use of toys, such as in the case of nonmotorized scooters, which have caused many injuries to children under the age of 15.

While product recalls work to decrease the number of injuries sustained by children related to a particular product, it is still necessary to be aware of them. In 2012, there were 584 incidents and 39 injuries as a result of recalled you- after the recall was announced. Parents and guardians should keep an eye out on websites such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission, or even social media for news regarding recalls and safety defects.

To reduce the risk of injury to your child this holiday season caused by defective toys:

· Stay informed about product recalls

· Inform yourself about a particular toy before purchasing it

· Carefully supervise your children when they use a toy

· Make sure each toy purchased is appropriate for the child’s age

· Avoid toys that appear unsafe, have safety warnings, contain sharp objects, or parts that may be pulled off

Defective toys can cause serious injuries to children. If your child has suffered an injury as a result of a defective toy, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can best advise you of your legal rights. The Law Offices of Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss have successfully handled numerous defective children’s product cases. With offices conveniently located, the firm represents clients throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Staten Island, Long Island, New Jersey and Connecticut. For a consultation, call 332-239-1601.